After their successful 2022 recording of Beethoven’s complete cello and piano sonatas, Alisa Weilerstein and Inon Barnatan return with a new album dedicated to Brahms, featuring three renowned sonatas. One of these is an arrangement of Brahms’s Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 1 in G major, showcasing the duo’s impressive artistry once again.
In the album’s liner notes, Weilerstein reflects on the collaboration, stating, “This project is a celebration of our shared artistic vision and the mutual respect that has developed over many years of playing together.” She emphasizes that interpreting Brahms requires a deep understanding and balance between the cello and piano parts, something only achieved through long-term collaboration.
The album opens with Brahms’s Sonata No. 1 in E minor, where both musicians shine with their individual expressions. Weilerstein’s playing is intense from the very start, marked by an expressive tendency to swell the notes. This brings a Romantic warmth to the performance, though at times, the rubato employed can feel surprising and not always in the most tasteful manner. In contrast, Barnatan’s phrasing is fluid and graceful, bringing a quiet yet powerful strength to the piano part. Together, their performances complement each other well, reflecting both the demands of the music and the distinct characters they bring to the interpretation.
As for the inclusion of Brahms’s Violin Sonata No. 1 in G major, transcribed for cello, the cello part may not entirely capture the original violin character. However, it allows Weilerstein to showcase her ethereal virtuosity and broad expressive range, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the music.
The final piece on the album, Sonata No. 2 in F major, stands as an example of musical drama at its finest. The piano’s assertive, biting attacks contrast beautifully with the cello’s energy, creating a dynamic and engaging performance. This sonata’s compelling energy, alongside the balance of lyrical and dramatic elements, concludes the album on a high note.
Overall, Weilerstein and Barnatan’s Brahms Cello Sonatas album is a beautiful addition to the Romantic music repertoire and will be a treat for listeners who appreciate the emotional depth and intensity of this musical period.
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